Ravens Stomp Steelers in Week One Matchup

Ravens 35 Steelers 7

Baltimore got off to a 1-0 start in 2011 against their most bitter rivals as their defense forced 7 turnovers. Safety Ed red led the charge with 2 second half interceptions. The 35-7 victory was a huge statement to start the season and let Pittsburgh fans know the AFC North might just be theirs to take this season.

The stomp of the Steelers was their first win over their enemy since 2006, and Flacco’s first in seven meetings versus Big Ben. The Ravens scored on the opening drive with a 27-yard TD pass from Flacco to Anquan Boldin and never looked back; they led 21-7 at the half.

Ravens running backs, Ray Rice and Ricky Williams, had their way with the Steelers defense, combining for 170 yards and a Rice TD. Williams longest run was for 26 yards and Rice started the game with his long of 36. Joe Flacco added 3 passing touchdowns to 3 different receivers. If the Ravens can continue that kind of offensive performance, the will win the AFC North.

Ravens Defense Dominates Steelers

Ben Roethlisberger was sacked 4 times Sunday, 3 times by Terrell Suggs alone. The Ravens defense also picked Big Ben 3 times. Their defense, though aging, looked fast, young, and ready to rip the Steelers head off. Baltimore’s defense wanted to bully the Steelers and did just that forcing 7 turnovers.

Ed Reed and Ray Lewis are the leaders of this defense and showed why Sunday, they combined for 13 tackles and 3 interceptions. If this is a sign how the 2011 season will play out, the Steelers should be very concerned. They could not run or pass all day, or stop the run or pass for that matter.

The loss was also the first for Roethlisberger against the Ravens for his career. Ravens fans hope it’s the first of many more to come.

Sources: si.com


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